appalling issue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appalling issue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or problem that is shocking, disturbing, or unacceptable. Example: "The appalling issue of homelessness in our city requires immediate attention and action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Leading up to the conclave, the Catholic Church was busy worrying about the appalling issue of the sexual abuse of children by so many of its priests.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Her most memorable call was with a final-year student with declining grades and appalling issues at home that no one knew about.

The Guardian

From this defensive error an appalling timing issue at the defensive line-out allowed the ball to be stolen by the Irish, and Scotland subsequently trudged up the tunnel 11-3 down after a few Irish phases.

BBC

Do you really need to know about the appalling security issues that have dogged nuclear weapons in the 70 years since their invention?

The Guardian - Books

The absence of national political leadership on this pressing issue is appalling.

The New York Times

"That is because of the taxation policies of Danny Alexander's own government - and he is guilty of the most appalling hypocrisy on this issue".

BBC

Last summer, Dame Sally Davies, the chief medical officer, said that the Department of Health would not expect to shortlist for future funding any NHS/university partnership where the academic partner had not achieved (at least) a silver award in this scheme, after seeing some "appalling" presentations of gender issues.

The Guardian - Opinion

It raised the issue of the appalling ignorance of many GPs and other doctors not only on specifically trans-related healthcare issues, but the general healthcare of trans people.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I can tell you," Mr. Matheson said, "as a son of a downwinder and a congressman who represents thousands of sick, dying and widowed victims of our nuclear testing that the federal record on this issue has been appalling".

The New York Times

This is at a time when the European Union is facing an existential crisis over the migration issue and the appalling reaction of extreme rightwing – indeed neo-fascist – movements in several European countries: not least, alas, in Germany, whose leaders since the war have worked so hard to avoid any recrudescence of the 1930s.

The Guardian - Business

In the same way that South Africa transformed its horrific history of racism and apartheid to become a beacon of human rights internationally, however, it can transform its appalling AIDS burden to take a global lead on this issue.

Globalization and Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience when using "appalling issue". While impactful, it may be too strong for some contexts. Adjust your language based on the formality and sensitivity required.

Common error

Avoid using "appalling issue" to describe minor inconveniences or disagreements. Overusing strong language diminishes its effect and can make your writing seem hyperbolic and insincere. Use alternatives like "significant challenge" or "notable concern" in less severe situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appalling issue" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "appalling" modifies the noun "issue". It emphasizes the severity and negative nature of the problem or situation being described. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "appalling issue" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase to describe a problem or situation that is considered shocking or disturbing. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, with examples primarily found in news and media contexts. While common, it's crucial to consider the tone and audience, ensuring the strong language is appropriate and impactful. Alternatives like "terrible problem" or "shocking matter" may be suitable depending on the context. When using this phrase, clearly articulate why the issue is considered appalling to maximize its effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

terrible problem

Replaces "appalling" with a more general synonym for bad, reducing the intensity.

shocking matter

Substitutes both words for alternatives with similar meanings; "shocking" emphasizes surprise and outrage.

dreadful situation

Focuses on the broader context rather than a specific point, using "dreadful" to convey severity.

atrocious circumstance

Emphasizes the harshness and brutality of the situation, amplifying the negativity.

grievous concern

Highlights the seriousness of the issue, framing it as a cause for worry and distress.

egregious difficulty

Emphasizes the exceptional and conspicuously bad nature of the problem.

deplorable state

Shifts focus to the condition resulting from the issue, using "deplorable" to express strong disapproval.

unacceptable reality

Underscores the idea that the issue is intolerable and must be changed.

critical predicament

Highlights the urgency and potential danger associated with the issue.

distressing dilemma

Emphasizes the emotional impact of the issue, focusing on the anxiety and unease it causes.

FAQs

How can I use "appalling issue" in a sentence?

You can use "appalling issue" to describe a situation or problem that is shocking, disturbing, or unacceptable. For example, "The "appalling issue" of homelessness in our city requires immediate attention."

What are some alternatives to "appalling issue"?

Alternatives include "terrible problem", "shocking matter", or "dreadful situation". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of emphasis you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "appalling issue"?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize the shocking or disturbing nature of a problem. Be mindful of the context and audience to ensure the phrase is not too strong or hyperbolic.

Is "appalling issue" too strong for formal writing?

While "appalling issue" can be used in formal writing, consider the tone and audience. In some cases, a more neutral phrase like "serious concern" or "significant problem" may be more appropriate.